FAMILY
The holidays are a natural time to reconnect with family. Mention how long it’s been since you’d seen them , or that you miss them and want to catch up. Mention that the kids/spouse/you really want to catch up and how you’d love for them to see how the succah is decorated. Give them a variety of options to come over (dinner, snack, lunch, party) and times, chol hamoed or Yom Tov, so that scheduling doesn’t deter them from attending.
NEIGHBORS
Neighbors are great to invite for Succos because most likely, they see you building your succah. That is a great opening. Knock on the door and say, “you probably have heard/seen us building our succah. We’d love to have you come over for a meal inside. When is good for you?”
CO-WORKERS
Mixing business and personal relationships can be tricky. However, the holidays offer a nice opportunity to expand your work relationships. Everyone likes a good holiday party and it feels natural to invite coworkers to a festive holiday event. Bring up the concept of Succos and how beautiful your succah came out this year. Mention that it’s traditional to have friends and family over for a party (simchas beis hashoevah). If you can bring a picture of the succah, even better. Then either give a written invitation or mention that you’d love for them to join you at the party. If scheduling is an issue, let them know they are
welcome anytime during Succos, especially since you’d love to show them the succah.
STRANGERS
We’ve all been in situations where we realize the people around us are Jewish. Maybe they are speaking Hebrew, wearing a Jewish star, reading a Jewish book or paper or ask us a question related to Judaism. The question is , what’s the next step? Why not use the connection to create an opening? Try saying, “I heard you speaking Hebrew, are you Jewish? Me too! I’m ________ . Where are you from?” If the conversation continues offer,
“You know Succos is coming up, what are your plans? We are having some people over for a meal, would you join us? ” Get their information (email can be less threatening) and offer them yours. Then follow up.